Few dishes capture the essence of home-cooked comfort quite like a creamy, flavorful casserole. This Chicken and Rice Casserole is a timeless classic, a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Whether it’s the nostalgic aroma wafting from the oven or the way each bite feels hearty and satisfying, this casserole is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen, just as it has been in so many homes over the years.
Growing up, casseroles were the ultimate crowd-pleasers. Whether it was for a family dinner, a potluck, or a comforting meal after a long day, my mom’s chicken and rice casserole was always a hit. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its rich, savory flavor but also in its simplicity. With just a handful of pantry staples and a few easy steps, you can create something that feels both special and effortless.
Casseroles like this one have a way of bringing people together. There’s something magical about placing a bubbling, golden dish on the table and watching everyone eagerly dig in. It’s a meal that speaks of tradition, love, and care—perfect for sharing with those who matter most. Whether you’re looking for a reliable weeknight dinner, a dish to bring to a friend in need, or a recipe that’s easy enough for a beginner but satisfying enough for seasoned cooks, this chicken and rice casserole checks all the boxes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fuss-Free Cooking: Minimal prep, one dish, and the oven does most of the work!
- Comforting and Satisfying: Creamy, hearty, and loaded with flavor, this casserole is the ultimate comfort food.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even serving at gatherings.
- Kid-Approved: The mild, creamy flavors make it a hit with little ones too.
- Versatile: Customize it with your favorite add-ins like veggies or cheese for a dish that’s uniquely yours.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1 cup water (or chicken broth for extra flavor)
- 2 cups Minute Rice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Chicken and Rice Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s perfectly heated when your casserole goes in, helping it bake evenly.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, onion soup mix, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, water, Minute Rice, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well blended. The mixture will be creamy, with a slightly soupy texture that thickens beautifully as it bakes.
Step 3: Prep the Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This ensures that the rice cooks uniformly and every bite is perfectly seasoned.
Step 5: Bake (Part One)
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 45 minutes. Covering the casserole helps trap steam, ensuring the rice cooks through and becomes tender.
Step 6: Bake (Part Two)
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes. This step allows the top to develop a light golden crust that adds both texture and flavor.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve. Spoon it onto plates, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley if desired, and enjoy!
Helpful Tips
- Boost the Creaminess: Add a little extra sour cream or sprinkle shredded cheese on top during the last 15 minutes of baking for an ultra-luxurious texture.
- Add Vegetables: For a one-dish meal, mix in frozen peas, diced carrots, or chopped broccoli. The veggies will cook perfectly as the casserole bakes.
- Use Fresh Chicken: While rotisserie chicken is a convenient option, cooking your chicken at home with simple seasonings like salt, pepper, and garlic powder can elevate the flavor.
- Rice Substitutions: If Minute Rice isn’t available, use regular long-grain rice. However, you’ll need to increase the liquid and bake time to ensure it cooks fully.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Notes
- Opt for low-sodium cream soups and soup mix if you’re watching your salt intake.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day! Simply reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick, comforting meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 391
- Protein: 21g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fat: 11g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 1184mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to a day ahead, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes and then bake as instructed.
What other proteins can I use?
You can substitute the chicken with turkey, shredded beef, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a twist on the original.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes! Assemble the dish as usual, but instead of baking, cover it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Related Recipes
If you loved this Chicken and Rice Casserole, here are more comforting dishes to try:
Conclusion
There’s a reason why casseroles like this Chicken and Rice recipe have stood the test of time. They’re simple to make, endlessly customizable, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re serving it as a quick weeknight dinner or preparing it ahead for a special gathering, this dish is sure to bring smiles to your table. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat!
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Best-Ever Chicken and Rice Casserole: A Timeless Comfort Dish
Description
Few dishes capture the essence of home-cooked comfort quite like a creamy, flavorful casserole. This Chicken and Rice Casserole is a timeless classic, a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Whether it’s the nostalgic aroma wafting from the oven or the way each bite feels hearty and satisfying, this casserole is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen, just as it has been in so many homes over the years.
Growing up, casseroles were the ultimate crowd-pleasers. Whether it was for a family dinner, a potluck, or a comforting meal after a long day, my mom’s chicken and rice casserole was always a hit. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its rich, savory flavor but also in its simplicity. With just a handful of pantry staples and a few easy steps, you can create something that feels both special and effortless.
Casseroles like this one have a way of bringing people together. There’s something magical about placing a bubbling, golden dish on the table and watching everyone eagerly dig in. It’s a meal that speaks of tradition, love, and care—perfect for sharing with those who matter most. Whether you’re looking for a reliable weeknight dinner, a dish to bring to a friend in need, or a recipe that’s easy enough for a beginner but satisfying enough for seasoned cooks, this chicken and rice casserole checks all the boxes.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1 cup water (or chicken broth for extra flavor)
- 2 cups Minute Rice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s perfectly heated when your casserole goes in, helping it bake evenly.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, onion soup mix, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, water, Minute Rice, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well blended. The mixture will be creamy, with a slightly soupy texture that thickens beautifully as it bakes.
Step 3: Prep the Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This ensures that the rice cooks uniformly and every bite is perfectly seasoned.
Step 5: Bake (Part One)
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 45 minutes. Covering the casserole helps trap steam, ensuring the rice cooks through and becomes tender.
Step 6: Bake (Part Two)
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes. This step allows the top to develop a light golden crust that adds both texture and flavor.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve. Spoon it onto plates, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley if desired, and enjoy!
Notes
- Opt for low-sodium cream soups and soup mix if you’re watching your salt intake.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day! Simply reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick, comforting meal.